Children's hospital pantomime is 'just what the doctor ordered'

Young patients at Watford General Hospital had their morning brightened up yesterday with a summer pantomime performance of Robinson Crusoe.

The pantomime was organised by The Starlight Children’s Foundation, who delivered a big dose of sunshine to children in Starfish ward as part of an eight week pop-up pantomime hospital tour.

Starlight is a national charity that grants wishes to seriously and terminally ill children and provides entertainment in hospitals and hospices across the UK to more than half a million sick and injured children.

Helen Peck is a play specialist who uses play to help children manage fear or pain on Starfish ward.

She said: "Every year we look forward to Starlight’s Summer Panto and our young patients were delighted with the performance of Robinson Crusoe.

"We know that play can significantly help to improve a child’s hospital experience and the pop up panto gives our young patients a chance to forget their illness for a short while and simply have some fun."

Neil Swan, chief executive of Starlight Children’s Foundation, said: "All of Starlight’s activities are aimed at distracting children from the pain and anxiety that they might be feeling as a result of their injury or illness and Starlight’s Summer Panto is always hugely popular with hospitals and hospices alike. We hope that this performance of Robinson Crusoe will be just what the doctor ordered."